Are moving companies cheaper during the week? Discover how timing your move can cut costs and why weekdays might save you more than you think.
Are moving companies cheaper during the week?
Yes!
I know most people prefer the comfort of the weekend, but what most people don’t know is that moving company are actually cheaper during the week.
Let me show you how to plan smart to save both time and money.
But first,
Why Does the Day of the Week Affects Moving Costs
This is the thing moving services run on supply and demand. Most people move when it is convenient for them, which is usually weekends, holidays, or the end of the month. But that is when the prices are really high.
Here are more things to note:
- Weekends book up fast. Everyone’s off work and school.
- End-of-month leases create rushes. More people move out/in at the same time.
- Holidays = higher rates. Movers charge a premium for working on public holidays.
Because of that demand, companies can raise their prices, and they do.
So, yes, moving companies are cheaper during the week. When you book a move between Monday – Thursday, you can
- Get lower hourly or flat rates
- Have more flexibility in booking your ideal time
- Work with a more relaxed, focused crew
- Avoid delays from traffic or other overlapping moves
Please note that this may not affect peak moving season, which falls between May and September.
The Pros and Cons of Hiring a Moving Company On A Weekday
Now, before you hire premium household moving and storage services, let’s consider all the potential benefits and drawbacks of moving during the week.
The Pros of Moving on a Weekday
1. Lower Moving Rates
Movers are free during the week, especially on Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursdays. As a result, many companies offer weekday discounts or lower hourly rates to get more orders.
For instance, if a mover charges $160/hour on Saturday, that same service might go for $125/hour on a Wednesday.
2. Easier Scheduling
There is more flexibility to pick your time slot. No one is squeezing you in the middle of five other weekend jobs. This means you get the exact time you want, they are more likely to arrive on time, and you get a more attentive service.
3. Faster Service
The movers’ schedules are mostly free, which means that the crew is more focused on you. You are most likely their first, and maybe only job for the day, so they will treat you well.
So, you can expect:
- Quicker loading/unloading
- Less risk of delays
- A calmer, more efficient experience
4. Less Traffic in Most Areas
In a city like Georgia, weekday mid-morning or early afternoon moves can avoid the chaos of weekend moving traffic and congestion.
5. Easier Elevator or Building Access
If you’re moving into an apartment or condo, the freight elevator is likely easier to book during weekdays.
No sharing it with three other people trying to move on a Saturday.
The Cons of Moving on a Weekday
1. You Might Need to Take Time Off Work
This is what discourages a lot of people because unless you work remotely or have a flexible schedule, a weekday move means:
- Taking personal leave or using a vacation day
- Rearranging your workweek (which may not be worth the savings)
2. School-Day Logistics for Kids
You also have to think about your children (if you have school-aged kids). It may be harder to juggle school pickups and drop-offs.
If you decide to keep them at home, you need to find a way to keep your kids safe while the movers are in and out.
3. There May Be Fewer Hands On Deck.
You may not be able to count on friends and family to help you out. They’ll be at work.
So, you need to take this into notice and make plans for packing, babysitting, or last-minute errands.
4. You Still Have To Worry About Rush Hour
Morning and evening rush hour traffic can slow everything down. Remember, people are going to work or coming back from work.
So, if you pick a slot during these times, this is something to worry about.
How to Discover The Most Convenient Time To Move For You?
There are several things to consider to get a convenient time for you. They include:
- Distance: If you are doing an interstate move, book a weekday. Trust me, you will want to avoid the roads on the busy weekends.
- Weather: Look up what the weather will be like during the week, and pick the best day. Snowy or rainy days can make your move more challenging and may result in damage to your belongings.
- Traffic: When it comes to this factor, pick a weekday. The weekend traffic will increase the time it takes to move you to your new place. By the time you get to your new place, you are tired and stressed.
Still Not Sold On a Weekday Move?
Here is a quick checklist to find out which is more convenient for you.
- Call at least three moving companies, and ask for quotes on weekday vs. weekend moves. Just mention you are flexible and are looking for the best possible rate.
- Ask directly about off-peak discounts. Don’t assume they don’t have because they are not advertising it; just ask.
- Try to avoid booking on the 1st and the 15th. The reason is that many leases start or end then, and this spikes the demand for moving companies.
- Please book early. While movers may not be so busy on Weekdays, the best movers still boom up fast, even on weekdays. As soon as you know your move date, start getting quotes.
Final Thought
Are moving companies cheaper during the week?
Most of the time, yes.
But what you save in dollars, you need to balance with time, flexibility, and convenience.
Every move is different.
The key is to plan ahead, get quotes for both weekday and weekend options, and choose what gives you the smoothest experience.
